Defibrillator: Abnormal Heart Rhythm Control | Wellbeing

What is a Defibrillator?

A defibrillator is a specialized medical device. It is capable of analyzing heart rhythm and automatically deciding whether a shock is necessary, thereby increasing a patient's chance of survival. When the heart stops beating, the most common cause is an abnormal heart rhythm, specifically ventricular fibrillation. A defibrillator is used to correct the heart rhythm by delivering an electric shock.

Defibrillators are designed to be compact. There are two basic types: the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). Additionally, there are manual defibrillators, typically used in hospitals, where shock modes can be adjusted by professional medical staff.

• Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are characterized by their ease of use and are often placed in public areas such as airports, schools, and shopping malls. The machine functions by automatically analyzing the heart rhythm and providing instructions to the user. Even those without medical expertise can use them.

• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) are small, battery-operated devices implanted into the patient's body. They function to monitor heart rhythm and automatically deliver a shock when an abnormal rhythm is detected, helping to prevent cardiac arrest.

The Importance of Defibrillators

Cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death. Time is decisive in these situations, and every minute that passes without medical intervention reduces the patient's chance of survival. When a patient suffers cardiac arrest, every second counts. Many traditional treatment methods, such as medication or surgery, are often only performed in a hospital setting, reducing the chance of saving lives in emergency situations outside the hospital.

Defibrillators help by analyzing the heart condition and providing guidance to the user. In the case of implantable defibrillators, they can automatically analyze and deliver a timely shock to restore heart rhythm, increasing the survival rate for the victim.

How to Use a Defibrillator

For Implantable Devices (ICD): There are two types.

1. Traditional ICDs: Placed in the chest. From the defibrillator, one or more electrical leads are threaded through veins to the heart.

2. Subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD): Designed to be placed under the skin on the side of the chest. This helps reduce the risk of infection compared to traditional implantable defibrillators. One of the standout advantages is that the S-ICD does not require leads to be implanted inside the heart chambers, reducing the risk of complications and simplifying the implantation procedure.

Both ICD and S-ICD devices feature automatic, continuous heart rhythm monitoring and the ability to self-administer shocks to restore normal rhythm.

For Automated External Defibrillators (AED): These devices feature voice and visual prompts to help the user perform the necessary steps accurately. When turned on, the machine automatically analyzes the patient's heart rhythm to determine if a shock is necessary.

Steps for using an AED:

1. Call Emergency Services: As soon as you discover someone in cardiac arrest, call the emergency number immediately.

2. Start the Machine: Turn on the AED and follow the instructions on the screen.

3. Place Electrodes: Place the electrode pads on the patient's chest as directed. Place the first pad on the right side, just below the victim's collarbone. Place the second pad on the left side, below the victim's armpit. Note: Place the electrode pads along the longitudinal axis (from head to toe) of the victim's body.

4. Analyze Heart Rhythm: Wait for the machine to analyze the heart rhythm. If a shock is needed, ensure no one is touching the patient.

5. Deliver Shock: Press the button for the machine to deliver the shock if requested.

6. Continue Resuscitation: If necessary, perform CPR (rescue breathing and chest compressions) and continue monitoring the patient's condition until support arrives from medical personnel.

Important Notes When Using Defibrillators

For ICDs:

• Contact a doctor immediately if there are abnormal signs at the incision site to avoid infection, or conditions such as chest pain or dizziness after device implantation.

• Avoid contact with devices containing magnets, equipment that may cause heart rhythm interference, or devices with strong magnetic fields and high currents to avoid affecting the ICD.

• Regular Checks: If using an implantable defibrillator, continue to take prescribed medication. Schedule regular doctor visits to ensure the defibrillator is functioning normally.

For AEDs:

• When using, avoid touching the victim, as this affects the machine's analysis process and carries a risk of electric shock.

• Do not turn off the AED or remove the electrode pads from the victim's body, as cardiac arrest may recur.

Equipping AEDs: Facilities such as schools, stadiums, and shopping malls, as well as individuals with symptoms of heart rhythm disorders, should have defibrillators to ensure everyone's safety. Organizing training courses on defibrillator usage can help the community be ready to respond in emergency situations.

The defibrillator is a vital life-saving device, playing a key role in responding to cardiovascular emergencies. It helps ensure patient safety and improves quality of life, while minimizing the risk of death from serious heart problems. Beyond cases where defibrillators are implanted, improving understanding and equipping AEDs not only saves lives but also raises community awareness about health safety.